The possibility of Seth Rollins cashing in during John Cena vs CM Punk at WWE Night of Champions 2025 has the wrestling world on edge, as high-stakes rivalries collide under the Saudi Arabian lights. Rollins, holding the coveted Money in the Bank briefcase for a second time, casts a shadow over world champions like Cena and puts both contenders on alert during this highly anticipated event.
At Money in the Bank, Seth Rollins made history by becoming just the second man ever to win the event’s ladder match twice, a feat that elevated his status as a two-time WWE Grand Slam Champion. With a championship shot valid for up to a year, Rollins is the looming threat for both top titleholders: Undisputed WWE Champion John Cena and Gunther. However, signs suggest Cena is particularly at risk at Night of Champions, pointing to a potential disruption in his reign ahead of schedule.
John Cena’s SmackDown Callouts Hint at Rollins’ Involvement
During the most recent episode of WWE SmackDown, John Cena took center stage, engaging in various segments that put the spotlight firmly on him. Cena’s interactions included appearances alongside Cody Rhodes, Randy Orton, and LA Knight, as well as a tense confrontation with CM Punk, punctuated by sneak attacks from Ron “R-Truth” Killings. Notably, Cena name-dropped Seth Rollins twice in the evening, drawing attention to the MITB holder’s intentions.
In one segment, Cena claimed his manipulation of Rollins’ animosity toward Punk had helped him secure victory in the Men’s Elimination Chamber Match earlier in the year. He also asserted that Rollins, driven by the desire for championship exclusivity, would never choose to cash in against him. This repeated emphasis on Rollins’ name may be laying the groundwork for a surprise cash-in at the upcoming Saudi Arabia event.
Bitter Rivalry Between Seth Rollins and CM Punk Intensifies the Stakes
Seth Rollins and CM Punk are entangled in one of the most heated feuds currently running in WWE. Ever since CM Punk returned as The Second City Saint, tensions with The Visionary have remained consistently high, fluctuating over a span of a year and a half. Both wrestlers have worked hard to prevent each other from capturing the company‘s top titles, fueling anticipation for a decisive confrontation.
With Punk challenging John Cena for the Undisputed WWE Championship at Night of Champions, Rollins’ decision looms large: will he allow his arch-enemy to take home the title, or will he use his MITB privilege to secure a shocking win? Wrestling fans see the possibility of Rollins intervening and snatching the championship away, creating the perfect setup for a high-profile match at SummerSlam. Alternatively, a strategic cash-in could revive another memorable rivalry, keeping storylines fresh.
Old Alliances and Foreshadowed Showdowns Add Layers of Suspense
Before his current feud with CM Punk, Seth Rollins shared a storied rivalry with Cody Rhodes. The duo’s history began with their clash at WrestleMania 38 and continued through to Hell in a Cell 2022, which saw Rhodes secure his third consecutive win—even with a severe injury. Eventually, their conflict morphed into an alliance, with Rollins playing a key role in helping Rhodes dethrone Roman Reigns at WrestleMania XL.
Now, with Rollins turning heel, tension simmers beneath the surface once again. This was highlighted on the June 6, 2025, episode of SmackDown, where Rollins and Rhodes locked eyes in a brief yet meaningful staredown, though neither addressed the other directly. Speculation builds with Rhodes pegged as the frontrunner in the current King of the Ring Tournament, fueling rumors that Rollins could execute a cash-in at Night of Champions. Such a move might not only dethrone Cena and disrupt Punk’s ambitions, but also set the stage for Rollins to confront Rhodes once more, possibly at SummerSlam.
Direct Teaser: Seth Rollins Confronts Cena and Punk on RAW
After his Money in the Bank victory, CM Punk challenged John Cena for the Undisputed WWE Championship, a challenge loaded with tension and historic significance. Their verbal sparring reignited familiar rivalries, with Punk accusing Cena of abandoning his principles, while Cena baited Punk into breaking his own steadfast rule by agreeing to compete in Saudi Arabia.
At this critical moment, Seth Rollins made his presence felt by entering the arena with his manager, his entourage, and the MITB briefcase in hand, openly teasing the prospect of cashing in. This bold appearance sent a clear signal that he may strike during the Saudi Premium Live Event, leaving both Cena and Punk vulnerable. The briefcase’s presence, coupled with Cena and Punk’s conflicting personal journeys, amplifies the tension leading into Night of Champions.
The Impact: A Shifting WWE Landscape Awaits
If Seth Rollins cashes in during John Cena vs CM Punk at WWE Night of Champions 2025, it could dramatically reshape WWE’s main event scene. Cena’s recent abandonment of his core values and Punk’s growing desperation set the stage for major character developments, regardless of the outcome. Should Rollins choose his moment wisely, it may result in new rivalries, shifting alliances, and a fiercely contested summer, particularly with SummerSlam and other major events on the horizon.
The looming threat of a cash-in leaves both The Franchise Player and The Second City Saint at pivotal crossroads in their careers, with the WWE Universe eagerly anticipating the shockwaves that Rollins’ decision could send through the company.
